Perennials

Perennials are plants that live for more than two years. In horticulture, they are contrasted with annuals, which complete their life cycle in one growing season, and biennials, which take two years to complete their cycle. Perennials include both herbaceous species, whose above-ground tissues die back seasonally, and woody species, such as shrubs, trees, and vines, which persist for many years.

In temperate regions, herbaceous perennials typically die back to the crown in winter and regrow from buds in spring. Woody perennials persist above ground year-round in suitable climates and may shed leaves seasonally or remain evergreen.

Perennials spread and reproduce in several ways. They can be propagated by seed, division of clumps, or by vegetative structures such as rhizomes, tubers, bulbs, or stolons. Many perennials are long-lived but may become crowded or decline in vigor and benefit from dividing or transplanting.

Gardeners value perennials for lasting structure, lower annual maintenance, and seasonal interest. Establishment can take time, and some perennials are short-lived, lasting only a few years in herbaceous form. They require appropriate sun exposure, soil, moisture, and occasional pruning, deadheading, or staking for vigorous growth.

Common examples include hosta, peony, daylily (Hemerocallis), echinacea, phlox, salvia, and many ornamental grasses. Ecologically, perennials support pollinators and wildlife and contribute to soil stabilization and erosion control.